Kevin Bacon is back in the spotlight with his latest role in the new horror comedy series, The Bondsman, which premiered on April 3, 2025, on Prime Video. In this unique blend of genres, Bacon plays Hub Halloran, a bounty hunter who is resurrected by the Devil to hunt down demons that have escaped from Hell. The series, created by Grainger David and produced by Blumhouse Television, features a cast that includes Jennifer Nettles, Beth Grant, and Maxwell Jenkins.
In a recent interview, Bacon expressed his excitement about the project, noting the physical challenges that come with the role. "It was a fun show for me because there's a lot of physical challenges, which I really like. There's a lot of running, jumping, fighting and underwater stuff," he said. He humorously added, "You know, just basically demon ass-kicking." This blend of action and comedy is what drew him to the character of Hub, who is portrayed as a complex figure trying to find redemption while navigating his chaotic life.
Alongside the action, The Bondsman also features original music written specifically for the show. Bacon collaborated with Grammy winner Jennifer Nettles to create an eight-track album titled The Bondsman: Hell and Back. "We had such a blast collaborating as songwriters," Nettles shared, praising Bacon's talent as a lyricist and storyteller. The music adds another layer to the series, enhancing its unique tone that mixes horror with humor.
Jolene Purdy and Beth Grant, who co-star in the series, also shared their experiences during the production. Purdy plays Midge, a representative for the Devil, while Grant portrays Kitty Halloran, Hub's mother. Both actresses highlighted the enjoyable atmosphere on set, with Purdy stating, "It didn't feel like work. It was such a supportive cast." Grant echoed this sentiment, noting that the humor in the script made their performances feel effortless.
The show's narrative revolves around Hub's journey of redemption as he confronts his past sins and attempts to save his soul. Bacon's character is not only a demon hunter but also a failed musician, which resonates with Bacon's own musical background. He has spent decades performing with his brother as part of the musical duo, The Bacon Brothers. This personal connection to the character's struggles adds depth to Bacon's portrayal.
During the production, Bacon also visited the high school where the iconic dance film Footloose was filmed, celebrating the movie's 40th anniversary. Reflecting on his career, he remarked how the roles he has taken on have evolved over the years, from a teenage heartthrob to complex characters like Hub Halloran.
Despite the show's horror elements, Bacon emphasized the underlying themes of family and redemption. He explained, "Part of the humor lies in the fact that when all this crazy stuff starts happening around Hub, he's pretty cool around it. He's like, 'OK, well, now, I've come back from the dead and now I've got to go and hunt these demons.'" This balance of humor and horror is a hallmark of the series, making it appealing to a broad audience.
In addition to Bacon and Nettles, the cast of The Bondsman includes Damon Herriman, who plays a significant role in the series, and Maxwell Jenkins, who portrays Hub's estranged son. The dynamic between the characters adds layers to the story, as they navigate their complex relationships amidst the chaos of demon hunting.
As the series continues to unfold, viewers can expect a mix of thrilling action, dark humor, and heartfelt moments. The collaboration between Bacon and Nettles in writing the show's music further enriches the viewing experience, providing fans with a unique soundtrack that complements the narrative. The album is currently available on all streaming platforms, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of The Bondsman even further.
Overall, The Bondsman showcases Kevin Bacon's versatility as an actor and musician, blending his talents in a way that captivates audiences. With its engaging storyline and memorable characters, the series promises to be a standout addition to the realm of horror-comedy television.
